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The Marathon Man: John Isner's Longest Tennis Matches

John Isner, the towering American tennis player known for his powerful serve and marathon matches, has etched his name in history with some of the longest battles ever witnessed on a tennis court.

As the 38-year-old announced that he will retire from professional tennis after US Open 2023, scheduled to begin on August 28 in New York, we take a look at Isner's longest matches in tennis.

1. Wimbledon 2010: The Longest Match Ever Played

One match that will forever be associated with John Isner is his epic encounter against Nicolas Mahut at Wimbledon in 2010. Lasting a staggering 11 hours and 5 minutes over three days, it holds the record for the longest match in tennis history. Isner won the match 6-4, 3-6, 6-7(7), 7-6(3), 70-68.

2. French Open 2018: Another Marathon Battle

Isner's ability to endure grueling matches was once again on display during the first round of the French Open in 2018. He faced Horacio Zeballos in a clash that lasted over five hours, with Isner eventually emerging victorious after winning three tiebreak sets. Isner won 6-7 (8), 7-6 (4), 7-6 (2), 6-2.

3. Wimbledon 2016: Another All England Marathon

Six years after his record-breaking match, John Isner played another long duration match against Jo-Wilfried Tsonga of France in 2016 at the All England Club. The encounter lasted four hours and 24 minutes. Tsonga won the match 6-7 (3-7) 3-6 7-6 (7-5) 6-2 19-17.

4. French Open 2013: Battling the Elements

Isner's resilience was tested once again during his second-round match against Tommy Haas at the Roland Garros in 2013. The scorching heat took a toll on both players, as they fought for five grueling sets lasting four hours and 36 minutes. Haas won the match 7-5 7-6 (7-4) 4-6 (4) 6-7 (10-12) 10-8.

5. Wimbledon 2018: A Clash of Titans

Isner's marathon matches seemed to have a special affinity for Wimbledon. In yet another epic battle, he faced Kevin Anderson in the semifinals of the tournament in 2018. The match lasted six hours and thirty-six minutes, with Anderson eventually prevailing after winning the final set 26-24. Anderson won the match 7-6 (8-6) 6-7 (5-7) 6-7 (9-11) 6-4 26-24.

FAQs
Who is John Isner?
John Isner is a towering American tennis player known for his powerful serve and marathon matches.
What is John Isner famous for?
John Isner is famous for his powerful serve and being involved in some of the longest battles in tennis history.
What are some notable matches that John Isner has been a part of?
John Isner has been a part of several notable matches, including the longest match in tennis history against Nicolas Mahut at Wimbledon in 2010.
How does John Isner's serve contribute to his success?
John Isner's powerful serve plays a crucial role in his success as it allows him to dominate opponents and win points quickly.
Why is John Isner called 'The Marathon Man'?
'The Marathon Man' is a nickname given to John Isner due to his involvement in incredibly long matches that often extend over several hours.
MyKhel Sports
Story first published: Thursday, August 24, 2023, 11:06 [IST]
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